The role of visual culture and literacy: reconciling the dialectic

Abstract

In this paper I wish to develop an argument that ‘context’ is the crucial feature of any program, this has been evidenced in the success of theme based art theory/history programs and most of the significant curator driven exhibitions (Documenta, Asia Pacific Triennial and the Sydney Biennale). Educators must not assume the validity of their subject but must elaborate an essential purpose and relationship to culture, community and the economy. To this end art educators need to be both proficient in practical production and conceptually articulate with the ability to marry theory and practice together.